Mammootty turns 70: Mohanlal, other stars wish South Indian icon on birthday

South Indian actor Mammootty turned 70 on September 7 and his colleagues — both young and old — were quick to wish their idol on his special day with thoughtful videos and pictures of them together.

Mammootty is one of Malayalam cinema’s biggest icons and boasts a career spanning over four decades and 400 films. His popularity has only grown with time. Here’s a look at some of the wishes that came his way.

Mohanlal was one of the first actors to wish Mammootty. He posted a video where he called his ‘Ichikka’ (brother) his beloved friend. In the video, he spoke about how acting with him in any movie was such a privilege and that his birthday is a cause of celebration in his household too. He also added that living in the same era as his idol was a blessing.

Khushbu Sundar: The actress and politician took to Twitter asking Mammootty to reveal the secret behind his age-defying looks. “Dearest @mammukka Wishing you a very, very happy birthday. Have super fun. Also please do share the secret of your super duper good looks,” she tweeted.

Prithviraj: Actor Prithviraj Sukumaran couldn’t find a good photo of the two together, but he spoke about their biryani get-together and tea sessions together. “I don’t have a better photo [because] we always forget to take one on those Biryani and black tea afternoons. But you have no idea how much you mean to me like you do to a zillion other dreamers and aspirants. And more than anything else, thank you for Chaalu and Surmi chechi! I love you and the world loves you! Happy birthday Ikka [brother]!.”

Mamta Mohandas: The actress described Mammootty as the ‘most dashing and most charismatic man’ in her entertainment industry. “Wishing you the best of health, peace, and success always,” wrote Mohandas.

Kunjacko Boban: Actor Kunjacko Boban described Mammootty as his mentor, dubbing the birthday boy as his role model. “Dearest Mammooka. You have always been there as a mentor, a guiding light, a teacher, a big brother and a genuine well-wisher for me and my family. Always a warm presence during my happiest moments and comforting soul during my trying times. I always felt my love and respect for you grow day by day. An undying inspiration and role model for all who wish to enter the movie industry, you still keep us in awe of your spirit, passion, commitment and love for the Art,” wrote Boban.

Manju Warrier: This popular Malayalam actress posted a portrait of the actor and wished him a great day ahead.

Kamal Haasan: Just like Mohanlal, Tamil actor Kamal Haasan also posted a video message greeting Mammootty on his birthday. “Greetings Mammootty sir. When I was told Mammootty sir has turned 70, I couldn’t believe it. I was under the impression that Mammootty’s age is as same as mine or even younger than me. Even as you are older than me, I can call you a junior as I entered the cinema before you. Not just that even if I look in the mirror, I feel I look older than you. So keep this youth up, energy up. Best wishes from a senior citizen to another citizen,” Kamal said in Malayalam.